Outsiders in the city: migrant housing and settlement patterns

ByWEIPING WU

Settlement patterns are an important determinant of the future socioeconomic
standing of migrants. Where and how migrants live is likely to affect their general
level of satisfaction with urban living and the ease or difﬁ culty to adapt to the new
environment. Research on migrant settlement in Latin American cities reveals
that new migrants (labeled as “bridgeheaders”) initially seek deteriorating rental
shelter. Over time, migrants generally occupy better housing – from rented rooms
to self-built shanties or houses. Once this transition is made, migrants become
consolidators (Klak and Holtzclaw 1993 ; Turner 1968 ). To most migrants, proximity to employment ranks high on the list of preferences and needs, as income
generation and economic viability are a primary objective for them. Particularly
for new arrivals with few acquaintances in the city, an initial residence within
walking distance of jobs is essential (Conway 1985 ; Gilbert and Varley 1990 ).
Others also point out the importance of kinship and friendship ties, acting as
social institutions (Abu-Lughod 1961 ; Banerjee 1983 ; van Lindert 1991).